My (not so) average life

Funny thing. Often I hear people characterize moms as those people who've somehow sacrificed who they are and even wonder how women could be happy in such a role. After all, it has been a popular subject for several depressing songs. Yes, I am that SUV driving, carpooling, boo boo kissing mom that many people from the outside think is some average life. I'm not saying this in a boastful way, but I feel like the adventures of motherhood is more extraordinary. Yes, I have and believe all parents have extraordinary lives and here's why:

1. I get to wear a pipe cleaner bracelet whose mismatched beads were put on by little fingers filled with love...there's not another one in the world like it.

2. I get to see the exuberant looks on my girls faces when I walk through the door or pick them up from school. Who doesn't love to be greeted that way?

3. My arms and lap are custom made to wrap around them knowing they feel so safe and secure there. I pray that they will find the same peace and safety in Jesus' arms.

4. I don't get to travel much, but through my kid's eyes and words my attention is constantly drawn to the wonders right around me.

5. I get a never ending supply of kisses and hugs, spontaneous and on demand :)

6. I get to see their inner and outer beauty untouched by worldly perceptions and influence.

7. Happy hour now means all our girls are giggling at the same time...ahhh the sibling harmony.

8. I get to witness and experience their very first expressions of love (comforting pats on the back from tiny hands, hugs and mmmmmaaaaa kisses)....can you get anymore extraordinary than that???

9. I get to see their excitement when we announce a surprise adventure, who knew a treat run to Sonic could be so exciting and smile producing? OK, I get that excited too.

10. I get to walk in after they are asleep every night to see them at a peaceful rest. Given all the activity of the day, it is definitely extraordinary that they can achieve such peace. Yes, I still do night checks.

I'm sure if I had time, I could think of many more. Yes, fatigue may consume my face at times and my feet may drag a little, but know that my heart is full (even if I have worn the same sweats three days in a row, you just might not want to get too close) :).

Another thing....I once heard a news reporter refer to getting kids dressed in the morning as a "simple act". Let me tell ya, there is nothing "simple" about it! I think getting kids dressed and out the door is an extraordinary task within itself.